NJ/NY Gotham FC and Republic of Ireland midfielder Sinead Farrelly announced her abrupt retirement from soccer on Friday due to post-concussive syndrome, which will require rehabilitation.
Gotham FC said in a statement that Farrelly “was advised by a neurologist to cease playing soccer due to the cumulative head injuries that she has sustained throughout her career, leaving her vulnerable to additional head injuries if she were to continue to play.”
Farrelly, 34, became one of the catalysts of the National Women’s Soccer League’s recent off-field reform after she went public with her story of alleged sexual coercion by former coach Paul Riley. Farrelly returned to the league in 2023, after initially retiring in 2016, and she helped Gotham FC win its first NWSL title in November.
“Thank you to Gotham FC and all its staff, my teammates, my family, my people and the fans who kept me on this path when I wanted to turn and run,” Farrelly said in a statement.
“I’d be nowhere without you all. I promise this ending is a gift, a blessing and just the beginning of something new. I am so grateful that this insane chapter even existed at all, let alone end in such a way where I am feeling so fulfilled and at peace. This truly has been so special.”
